San Marzano tomatoes are a variety of plum tomatoes, known for their sweet flavor, low acidity, and firm pulp. They are considered one of the best tomatoes for making sauces, due to their rich taste and thick flesh. Originally grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius in the Campania region of Italy, they have become highly sought after by chefs and home cooks alike.
San Marzano tomatoes are elongated and have a pointed tip, with a vibrant red color when ripe. They are typically canned for preservation, either whole or crushed, and are widely used in Italian cuisine, especially in dishes like marinara sauce, Neapolitan pizza sauce, and pasta sauces. The San Marzano tomato has been granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union, which means that only tomatoes grown in the designated region following specific production methods can be labeled as San Marzano. This recognition underscores their unique flavor profile and cultural significance.
